I am deeply saddened by the recent shooting of a Bald Eagle in the town of Caroline. This is a loss for the environment and for our community as well.

The man had set out bait in order to shoot coyotes. He told police that he mistook the eagle for a Turkey Vulture. “Taking”, (even simply harassing) an eagle, is both a State and Federal offense. The same goes for Turkey Vultures. He has been charged with violating three New York State environmental conservation laws and faces up to a $5,000 fine and 90 days in jail. His arraignment is scheduled for noon, January 22nd, in Caroline Town Court.

My concern is that our District Attorney has the authority to settle the case with a reduced plea. My hope is that anyone who is as saddened as I am contact Mr. Van Houten to let him know that our community will not tolerate this despicable, cowardly act and that the shooter should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.